University of South Africa South Africa

Unisa is the largest open distance learning institution in Africa and the longest standing dedicated distance education university in the world. We enrol nearly one-third of all South African students.

Founded in 1873 as the University of the Cape of Good Hope, the institution became the first public university in the world to teach exclusively by means of distance education in 1946. Throughout the years, Unisa was perhaps the only university in South Africa to have provided all people with access to education, irrespective of race, colour or creed. This vibrant past is mirrored in our rich history, more particularly our massive and impressive database of alumni, some of whom are to be found in the most senior levels of society across the world.

University of South Africa South Africa Offered Courses | Programmes

University of South Africa South Africa Tuition Fees

Student fees and funding your studies

Unisa’s study fees are generally lower than other higher education institutions, but studying is still a significant investment either way. The cost depends on the qualification, obviously, as well as the number of modules you choose.

The average student registers for between 4 to 6 modules per year at a cost of between *R1 815,00 and *R7 550,00 per module (* these amounts are subject to change). The module costs do not include your prescribed books. Books are an additional cost that you must factor into your calculations for your full costs of study.

Application for admission fee

The application fee is non-refundable even if you decide not to study through Unisa or do not qualify for admission to Unisa.
Please note that Unisa does not accept cash or cheques at any of its offices.

Bursaries and loans for Unisa students

Unisa’s Division: Student Funding (DSF) administers donor funding in the form of bursaries and loans to Unisa students. The criteria for awarding these bursaries and loans are determined by the donors of the funding. All application forms are available at www.unisa.ac.za/studentfunding

University of South Africa South Africa Admission

Undergraduate qualifications

Applications for admission to undergraduate qualifications for the 2023 academic year will be open from 1 September to 14 October 2022. 

First-time Unisa applicants

Returning students

Honours degrees & postgraduate diplomas

Applications for admission to honours degrees and postgraduate diplomas for the 2023 academic year will be open from 1 September to 14 October 2022. 

First-time Unisa applicants

Returning students

Master’s & doctoral qualifications

Applications for admission to master’s and doctoral qualifications for the 2023 academic year will be open from 11 September to 14 November 2022 (some exceptions apply).

All M&D applicants

Short Learning Programmes

Applications for 2023 registrations of Unisa’s Short Learning Programmes (SLPs) are open from 1 September 2022 until 14 October 2022. The SLPs focus on “just in time” and “just enough” learning to meet a specific learning needs identified by individuals or organisations. SLPs are offered by Unisa’s Centre for Lifelong Learning (UCL). Programme content and contact details are contained in each programme. All enquiries should be directed to ucl@unisa.ac.za.

You can apply online for your selected Short Learning Programmes

Apply for admission

Errors and Suggestion

Notice: If you are a student of this university or have information about this university,
do not hesitate to share with us if you see incorrect or incomplete information. Contact information: counselorcorporation@gmail.com or comment below.

Important Notice: When starting your education life, do not just proceed in line with this information. This information provides basic information about the university.
Make contact with university before your final decision.

For more: List of universities by country